On 14 March, SESAR JU partner, Startical launched its first satellite, IOD-1, as part of ECHOES, a SESAR Digital Sky Demonstrator showing how satellite-based communications can enhance air traffic management (ATM). Co-funded by the EU through the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency and supported by the SESAR Joint Undertaking, ECHOES aims to improve flight efficiency, safety, and sustainability.
Manufactured by GomSpace, IOD-1 is equipped with VHF and ADS-B capabilities to test real-time communication between aircraft and air traffic control from space. The project seeks to address coverage gaps over remote and oceanic regions, where real-time voice and data links are currently unavailable. By enabling continuous aircraft monitoring and optimised routing, this technology could reduce fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions.
https://www.sesarju.eu/news/european-satellite-launched-test-space-based-air-traffic-communications